Management and Science University, Malaysia

MyCoral Ecomarine Project - Underwater Seascape

Greening the blue with MyCoral.

The MyCoral project aims to restore corals on artificial frames to create a new ecosystem on Geluk Island in Terengganu. From frame design to technique strategizing, the MyCoral team has improved coral propagation 40 times faster than the natural way, known as micro-fragmentation.

The most recent assessment of the Malaysian marine ecosystem shows a substantial decline in fisheries resources, despite rising demand for fisheries products. The goal of this project is to develop a healthy ecosystem that can enrich the habitat and increase fisheries resources while closing the resource demand gap.

This on-going project bagged the Best Green Invention Special Award for MyCoral Underwater Seascape innovation and also took home a gold medal in the Environment and Energy category, both at the International Invention, Innovation, and Technology Exhibition (ITEX 2019).

Ten custom propagator frames have been lowered under the sea since the inception of MyCoral in 2016. Now, the number has increased, with some being of a new design.

What the Judges Thought

An inspiring and successful marine habitat creation project that has support from key partners and has already yielded positive benefits for marine life as well as the staff and student volunteers. 

What it Means to Win

"We are honoured to receive the Green Gown Award for this project. We hope that this award will encourage us to do more initiatives on SDGs and to empower everyone in the institution to contribute more for the communities."

Professor Dr. Indang Ariati Ariffin, Vice President of Research & International Affairs

Top 3 Learnings

1. We believe that coral restoration is a noble effort that can be participated by all communities with the same aim to sustain the marine ecosystem.
2. Coral restoration teaches us to appreciate nature more.
3. Continuity is a main component to ensure the sustainability is long lasting.